January 28, 2009

It's a great quote in many ways and certainly food for thought. In the current economic climate with the changes we're seeing in the practice, including layoffs and cutbacks, leadership becomes particularly important.

For those firms that want to survive in this economy, leadership is critical. If firms want to keep good talent and keep clients happy, law firm leadership will have to deal with the fallout of economic pressures facing their firms and their clients. Law firm leaders will need to be crystal clear about the firm's vision and be willing to do what it takes to get there and to help the attorneys and staff that remain in the firm to reach the firm's goals. Communication of the firm's vision and goals to everyone on staff is a crucial first step. If leadership isn't willing to articulate the plan and take the necessary steps, the rest of the firm will be unable or unwilling to follow.

January 08, 2009

Late last year, I engaged in a bit of a debate with David Giacalone of f/k/a about value pricing and alternative billing for lawyers. Ron Baker, a well-known proponent of value pricing, didn't join the debate directly, but he did post some comments on the Vera Sage website about the continuation of the debate over value pricing for lawyers.

Baker opines that two factors may push lawyers toward value pricing, neither of which is the current economic crisis. Instead, Baker believes that the unsustainability of the billable hour model and the competition for legal talent will be the driving force behind a switch to fixed fee pricing for law firms. His post, and indeed the whole Vera Sage site are recommended reading for any lawyer or professional services firm seeking information about switching to fixed fees.

Legal Ease Consulting, Inc. Allison C. Shields

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